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Using tiles outside for various projects such as patios and hard landscaping can offer fantastic potential when it comes to the style, design and function options. However, selecting the most suitable tiles is not so easy when it comes to outdoors as there is much more to consider, such as durability and different climates, slip-resistance, maintenance, and style choices. However, here at Artisan Tiles & Interiors, we believe that porcelain is the best type of product material to go for, and in this article, we’re going to explain what makes it so perfect for the outdoors.
1. Durability and Climate
When it comes to tiling an outside space, it is vital to ensure that the tile you have selected can withstand the United Kingdom’s rugged and rough weather. All year round the tiles might have to stand up to freezing temperatures, plenty of rain and the occasional bit of sunshine here and there. Whatever the weather, it’s crucial you have the right material to avoid any nasty surprises.
Porcelain ticks all the boxes. It’s manufactured using extreme heat and pressure, resulting in a tremendously dense product. As a result, it makes it perfect against rain and frost as it is less than 0.5% porous, meaning that little water is absorbed making it extremely frost resistant. Thus, when the temperature drops below zero and the water freezes and expands, porcelain won’t crack like most tiles. Also, the extremely durable properties make it suitable for heavyweights and are scratch resistant, allowing you to place whatever furniture you like over it. With porcelain, you can rest assured that they will be able to stand up to the harshest of climates and still look amazing for years to come.
2. Anti-Slip Abilities
Another critical factor you must consider when using tiles outside is if they are anti-slip. The last thing you want to do is select your tiles, have them fitted, then to only find yourself on your way to hospital after a nasty slip at a later date.
Porcelain is a fantastic choice due to its resistance to water but also thanks to the many textures and finishes. Textures can provide slip-resistance properties, but we recommend for outdoors you select a matte finished tile at the very least. The best way to ensure you have chosen a slip-resistant product is to check the Anti-Slip ‘R’ rating which stands for ‘ramp test’. The level rating runs from R9-R13 (the higher number, the more slip resistant). It is necessary for outside tiles to be at least an R10 rating or above to ensure they have sufficient surface grip. Textured porcelain tiles are usually placed at the upper end of the scale, making them a perfect option for the outdoors.
3. Very Low Maintenance
As we have noted, Porcelain is non-porous which removes the need for a sealer, therefore little or no maintenance is required! It stops any dirt, algae, moss or rot from building up on the surface and is impervious to staining. Just a wash with some soapy water when it starts to look tarnished will have them looking like new. Far easier than maintaining wooden decking!
4. Beautiful Styling Options
The all-important style is enhanced with an extensive array of designs, textures, and finishes options porcelain has to offer. The materials and manufacturing technology used is of high quality, allowing our supply manufacturers to produce aesthetic beauty that can look like natural stone. Colour fading is something you needn’t worry about either as porcelain is resistant to UV fading unlike wood decking, so it will continue to look great. So with all these options, we’re sure you will find a design you love.
These beautiful options paired with porcelains properties allows you to create a seamless interior to the exterior floor. Unlike wood or carpet, porcelain can create a transition from inside your home to the outdoors. It gives the impression of a larger space, which can be enhanced further by using larger sizes. The elegant continuity can add so much, especially when it comes to those summer days and nights.
We hope this article will help you make an informed decision to ensure you select a product that’s perfect for you. If you would like to know more about the possibilities of using porcelain outside or would be interested in viewing our extensive ranges of porcelain tiles, please get in touch via our contact page or come and visit our showroom. You can also browse through a limited selection of our tiles here.